So, I have a Dodge Ram 1500 I use to go to the local mountains here in MD. Typically go with the wife and a couple of friends who all board and I am tired of putting everyone's gear in the bed. We wrap them up in blankets, and go through great lengths to protect them from getting damaged while transporting, but with coolers and and things sliding around that is a PITA.

I have been looking for something that would mount to the top of the bed rails, so I can put a Thule/Yakima rack on top. Thought about making my own, but don't knwo how to weld so after a long search I finally came across Inno. Anyone used the Inno RT-101 clamps with the bars and put a board/ski holder from Yakima/Thule on them? Seems like a great system, and will do what I want it to. Not the cheapest at $185 without the board holder, but that is life. Any thoughts or experience with this type of setup?

Unfortunately the OEM one from dodge is only for the newer rams (07+) and I have a 05. You also need the bed rail system they have which is stupid expensive.

I saw some of the hitch assemblies, and besides cost, it seems it would create a lot of drag no? I could be wrong or it could be very negligible, but the gas mileage is already pretty bad and would suck to make it worse...

Much more expensive but have you considered a receiver hitch system???

For the Mopar piece linked above you have to install or already have their cargo system, which is basically just two pieces of channel, so if you know the right sizes you could easily adapt it for any truck.

I've thought about this before on the trips that I don't fly, and I'm considering moving to Colorado or Utah in the near future so it's crossed my mind. My idea was to make a system I could mount onto my tailgate if possible, or right at the tail of the bed and easily remove for when I need the space. I've got a 6 inch lift and 35s on my F150... so side access would be a bit of a pain.

I made this for my boys car. Actually the original owner made it, I modified it to work for snowboards. I just need to buy the actual snowboard rack. Waiting till closer to season end.
As to the drag I think it will be negligible and not worth your consideration. If you are truly worried about it your best option is wrap the boards or a bag as suggested and store them in the bed as you are doing. That is also free.

You are probably right I guess my statement really should have been "lesser of two evils, gas or convenience"

I sport the entire Yakima rack system on my ride no choice. This goes on mid Nov and stays on till Apr. I never checked fuel mileage as I don't really care about it as I can't change it, when car is empty I fill it.